FAQ

Children can start as young as 4 years old in our Jump'n Jig Preschool Program.

For children aged 6 and up they start in our Beginner Grade program where they learn much the same that the Jump'n Jig students do, but at a quicker pace along with the basic steps and dances required for entering their first feis (competition).

Our dance classes run all year round with additional camps available throughout the year. Registration for the 2024-25 dance year is now available. Accepting new enrollees for the Fall and Winter Terms. Enroll now!

Please bring a water bottle and notebook. Hair should be neatly pulled back from the face. Shannon dancers are required to wear a SIDAGEAR shirt in any style, black shorts, and poodle socks or black socks for boys. Dancers should purchase a pair of Irish soft shoes second hand or from our Irish dance supplier at http://www.rutherfordshoes.comRutherford Shoes and Accessories. We will let you know when your child requires hard shoes, which are also available new or second hand.

A feis (pronounced fesh) or feiseanna (plural), is an Irish term meaning traditional Gaelic arts & culture festival and is commonly used for referring to Irish dance competitions. Though many feiseanna include language, writing, music and soda bread competitions, the focus is on Irish dancing. 

Shannon is a unique and modern Irish dance school that strives to offer the perfect balance of performance and competition. Feiseanna are a huge part of the complete Irish dance experience, history, and culture. Competition can provide an excellent way for dancers to gauge their improvement, boost their confidence, learn the value of hard work, meet dancers from fellow schools, and TRAVEL! Once we feel a dancer is ready for their first feis we will inform you.

Yes! Even within the first year of dance, all dancers will have the opportunity to take part in our original production of An Irish Nutcracker held each year in December. They will also get the option to perform at various events with our performance company. Performing is an excellent way for children to gain confidence on the stage, tap into their creative side, and have fun!

We do not allow parents in the dance room because we find that it distracts the dancers from the task at hand. Dancers are more focused on the teacher and will perform better with fewer people in the room. Dance is also about learning independence. You will see your dancer grow so much in confidence from their dance classes. Parents will get opportunities throughout the year to see their dancer perform at recitals, feiseanna, and other dance events. We thank you for your understanding!